Is Gore-Tex the right choice for me?

To be a golfer in the UK you need to accept that you will often be playing in less than perfect conditions. Let’s be honest, if you only ever played in the dry, you'd probably only play eight times a year! Whilst that is overstating things just a tad the fact remains that golf is simply not a fair-weather sport. To enable you to play at your best level when the elements turn against you, it is important that you equipment yourself with some good quality waterproof clothing. How good do you need to go though?

There are many good options at differing price points these days, with the quality of the lower cost waterproofs now substantially better than they were just a few short years ago. There is still a significant difference between the quality of the lower cost waterproofs and those at the higher end that come equipped with Gore-Tex.

Lets have a look at the benefits of buying Gore-Tex waterproofs, so you can decide if this is the right choice for you.

What is Gore-Tex?
Gore-Tex is a highly breathable waterproof and windproof fabric that is also extremely durable. It is constructed from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene and was invented by Bob Gore in 1969. This later became known as Gore-Tex and paved the way for the first ever completely waterproof, windproof and breathable outerwear.

Why Are Gore-Tex Garments More Expensive?
Many fabrics and membranes have been created that can block prevent water from getting in. What Gore-Tex did so successfully though was to allow perspiration to escape from the inside at the same time as preventing the rain from getting in from the outside. Gore-Tex contains 1.4 billion microscopic pores per square centimetre of fabric. The pores are 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet, and yet 700 times bigger than water vapour molecules. Gore-Tex is the best, plain and simple. As with all the best things in life, they cost a little more.

How Does This Make a Gore-Tex Garment Better?
All Gore-Tex garments have a lifetime waterproof guarantee. Regardless of which clothing manufacturer constructed the garment containing the Gore-Tex, should it leak, and has not been damaged by a thorn bush or something similar, the item will be replaced for free. When you consider that the best waterproof guarantee you can get from non-Gore-Tex waterproofs is three years the extra financial outlay at the beginning is easily recouped if you take diligent care of the garment. Gore-Tex only supply the license to use their membrane to select clothing manufacturers that have already cemented their reputation for making excellent quality clothing. If the Gore-Tex symbol is found on an item of clothing, you can rest assured that you are buying quality.

Can Garments Containing Gore-Tex Be washed Normally?
Yes indeed! They can usually be washed on a normal 40-degree wash; however, it is not recommended to use fabric softener.

Can Garments Containing Gore-Tex Be Dried in The Drier?
Yes indeed! In fact, using a drier after washing your Gore-Tex garment actually helps to reactivate the Gore-Tex membrane.

Should I Buy Gore-Tex Waterproof Jacket Or Trousers For Golf?
A Gore-Tex waterproof suit is a sound investment if you are a golfer that often plays in the rain. We understand that not everyone has a budget that will stretch to buying a Gore-Tex suit but for those that can, we heartily recommend them. They are produced in a variety of styles primarily by the iconic Swedish brand Galvin Green. Galvin Green have been producing superior quality waterproofs for over twenty-five years and their name is synonymous with both quality and style.

They offer two different platforms in which Gore-Tex is used. Performance & Paclite.

The Performance shell benefits from an extra internal layer and is an ideal choice when the weather is colder. Performance shell items benefit from stretch material construction ensuring that freedom of movement is not compromised.

The Paclite shell is a single layer which is an ideal choice for golfing in warmer wet conditions. It is lighter than the performance shell and is very easily packable - making it ideal for taking with you on walks, as well as on the golf course. I’m sold! Where Can I Get one?

Galvin Green Gore-Tex Waterproof Jackets